3 Types of Hobbies Essential for Success, According to Science

The Importance of Having a Variety of Hobbies

When you truly love doing something, it’s hard not to give yourself to it completely. Finding the “sweet spot” of a hobby—something you enjoy and excel at—often makes it a top priority. And there’s nothing wrong with having a single passion. In fact, about 15% of the U.S. population has only one hobby, according to a 2024 survey.

That said, hobbies do more than just fill your time. In many ways, they shape who you are, nurturing aspects of yourself that might otherwise go unnoticed or neglected. By focusing on just one type of hobby, we may unintentionally leave other areas of ourselves—our mind, body, or creativity—without the care they need.

1. A Hobby That Keeps You Active

You’re probably aware of how important exercise is for physical well-being. But from a psychological standpoint, it’s just as crucial—research suggests that physical activity plays a key role in reducing stress and preventing mood disorders like depression.

If you’re not naturally drawn to exercise, knowing where to start or maintaining a consistent routine can feel overwhelming. This challenge is made worse by stereotypes about what the “right kind” of exercise should be—many believe that running or hitting the gym are the only viable options.

In reality, exercise doesn’t have to mean hours in the gym or running marathons—unless that’s something you enjoy. It can be as simple as moving your body and getting your heart rate up in ways that bring you joy:

Swimming: If you love the sensation of being in water, swimming is a fantastic option. It’s easy on the joints and provides a full-body workout. Plus, the rhythmic strokes and sound of water can have a meditative effect.

Walking: Never underestimate the power of a good walk. Whether it’s a stroll around your neighborhood or a hike in the woods, walking is one of the easiest ways to stay active.

Dancing: The beauty of dancing is that it comes in many forms—taking a class, going out with friends, or simply dancing in your living room. Beyond being a great workout, it’s also a fun way to relieve stress.

Yoga: Ignore those who dismiss yoga as "just stretching." In reality, it’s one of the best ways to connect with your body in a nourishing and restorative way.

Team sports: If you prefer a social element, consider joining a local sports league. No matter the sport, playing with others makes exercise more enjoyable.

2. A Hobby That Keeps You Creative

Many people insist they don’t have a "creative bone" in their body. They believe they’re bad writers, clumsy artists, or terrible singers, and assume creativity isn’t for them. But creativity isn’t about being “good” at something—it’s about expressing yourself, letting go of judgment, and enjoying the process of making something new.

Creative hobbies are like food for the soul. They help process overwhelming emotions and allow us to find beauty in everyday life. And the best part? You don’t have to be a professional artist to reap the benefits. A 2024 study published in Frontiers in Psychology found that people who engage in creative hobbies report higher life satisfaction, happiness, and—most importantly—a greater sense that life is meaningful.

Creative writing or journaling: Putting thoughts into words can be incredibly therapeutic. You don’t need to write a masterpiece—just jotting down feelings, dreams, or short stories can be a great emotional release.

Cooking: The kitchen is one of the greatest canvases for creative expression. Try new recipes, decorate cakes, or invent your own dishes. Cooking blends creativity with practicality—and you get to eat your art.

Gardening: There’s something deeply fulfilling about watching plants thrive under your care. Whether it’s flowers, herbs, or vegetables, gardening connects you with nature and lets you create something living and beautiful.

DIY projects, knitting, or crocheting: Handcrafts are perfect for those who love working with their hands. They’re rhythmic, relaxing, and leave you with a tangible result.

3. A Hobby That Keeps You Mentally Sharp

While physical and creative hobbies nourish the body and soul, intellectual hobbies keep the mind sharp, curious, and engaged with the world around you. It’s easy to fall into the habit of interacting with life on a surface level—whether through your phone, conversations, or even with yourself. Finding a hobby that challenges your mind can feel like rediscovering a part of yourself you didn’t know was dormant.

Starting something new—especially something that requires focus—can feel uncomfortable at first. But remember, you don’t need to master it quickly or compete with anyone. The goal is to rediscover the joy of learning, explore new ideas, and step outside your comfort zone.

The benefits of these hobbies are immense: they improve problem-solving skills, strengthen memory, and enhance mental resilience. Plus, a 2023 study from Frontiers in Psychology suggests that intellectually challenging activities can help reduce the risk of cognitive decline over time. More importantly, these hobbies allow you to see the world—and yourself—in new ways:

Reading: Books are the perfect mental workout. Fiction expands empathy and transports you to new worlds, while nonfiction introduces you to fascinating topics. Every genre offers a new learning experience.

Puzzles and logic games: For those who love a challenge, crosswords, Sudoku, and riddles are excellent ways to keep your mind sharp. Games like chess or Scrabble offer the same benefits, with an added element of fun.

Learning a new language: Mastering another language is like a full-brain workout. It improves memory, problem-solving skills, and active listening—plus, it opens doors to new cultures.

Traveling: Exploring new places challenges your mind to adapt and grow while educating and inspiring you.

Finding new hobbies may take some trial and error, and that’s okay. The key is to keep experimenting until you find something that doesn’t feel like an obligation, but a celebration of what your body and mind can do.